Frank "Buck" Rice Jr.

Frank “Buck” Rice Jr, 83, of Weaverville, NC, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, after a long battle with cancer.

Frank was born on September 11, 1941, in Madison County, NC where he was raised in the Walnut Community. He graduated from Clyde A. Erwin High School in 1959. After a short tour of duty in the U.S. Army, he went to work at General Motors Oldsmobile in Lansing, MI (The Fisher Body Plant) where he learned his trade of working on and painting cars. He retired after 20 years and moved back to Weaverville, NC in 1982. After moving back to Weaverville, he spent his time delivering newspapers and working on vehicles before fully retiring.

Frank is survived by his sister, Jody Silver and brother Bruce Rice. His children; Brian Freelan and his wife Christina Freelan, Eugene Rice and his wife Paige Rice. His grandchildren; Mason Freelan, Payton Rice and Jaden Rice. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kay V. Rice, his parents, Frank and Robena Rice. His brother and sisters; James Rice, Anna Hixon, Shelby Honeycutt and Francis Langford. His sons; Gary Rice and Chris Rice.

There will be a small graveside service for the family, and a Celebration of Life will be determined for a later date.

Frank will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His kindness, guidance and spirit will forever be remembered.

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